They welcomed back Andy Carroll back after an eight month lay-off but it was the team's 'togetherness' and fans' support that gave the team victory.

"The team showed togetherness today and the supporters stuck by us and have travelled a long way this week.

Talking about boss Sam Allardyce he said: "He has come under pressure but he's experienced to take that. He took the plaudits when we finished 10th last year. People will be coming back from injury soon to give the squad a boost."

The Hammers moved above Cardiff to get out of bottom three to alleviate some pressure on Allardyce after two embarrassing cup drubbings to Manchester City and Nottingham Forest.

Goals came from Carlton Cole and a late goal from captain Mark Noble who knew how big this win was for the struggling Hammers.

"That was massive," Noble said.

"We have been poor lately, we have been embarrassed in the two Cup games recently and this is a tough place to come, but we have lost a man and still managed to win."